Same Fight Card Sees Two Boxers Die From Brain Injuries In Japan

The boxing realm in Japan is currently dealing with tragedy as two boxers passed away from injuries that they suffered during their bouts that were set on the same fight card.

Both 28 years old, Hiromasa Urakawa and Shigetoshi Kotari suffered injuries to their brains that led to both of their deaths.

Not much longer after finishing a 12-round draw Aug. 2 against Yamato Hata, the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation junior lightweight champion, Kotari collapsed. (RELATED: Vikings’ Rondale Moore Suffers Brutal Knee Injury On First Play Of Preseason After Already Missing Entire 2024)

Suffering from a subdural hematoma, Kotari underwent emergency surgery on his brain. The condition is when blood gathers between the skull and brain. Unfortunately, he passed away from his injuries Friday.

Urakawa fell victim in a knockout defeat against Yoji Saito, and afterwards, he also had to receive a brain operation (craniotomy) to try to save his life.

Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari 🕊️

The boxing world mourns the tragic passing of Japanese fighter Shigetoshi Kotari, who succumbed to injuries sustained during his August 2nd title fight.

A warrior in the ring. A fighter in spirit. Gone too soon.

Our thoughts and prayers are… pic.twitter.com/PjZtDyBIU2

— WBO (@WorldBoxingOrg) August 8, 2025

The WBO mourns the passing of Japanese boxer Hiromasa Urakawa, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained during his fight against Yoji Saito on August 2 at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo.

This heartbreaking news comes just days after the passing of Shigetoshi Kotari, who died from… pic.twitter.com/CDzoSmKU2d

— WBO (@WorldBoxingOrg) August 9, 2025

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time,” stated the World Boxing Organization in a social media post.